News

Chicago, Ill.-The Chicago Blackhawks announced Wednesday that they have acquired defenseman Brian Connelly from the Minnesota Wild in exchange for forward Brad Winchester. Connelly will report directly to the Rockford IceHogs of the American Hockey League.

In addition, defenseman Zach Miskovic has been traded by Rockford to Iowa for future considerations and Rockford has recalled rookie defenseman Bobby Shea from the ECHL’s Toledo Walleye.

Connelly, 27, has appeared in 50 games this season with the AHL’s Iowa Wild, leading the team in points (32) and assists (27). He also ranks second among team defensemen in goals (5) and power play goals (3).

He previously spent parts of four seasons with the IceHogs from 2009 to 2012. The Bloomington, Minn., native has tallied 212 points (32g-181a) in 342 career AHL games with Rockford, Abbotsford, Houston and Iowa. He has played in the AHL All-Star Game twice (2010-11, 2011-12) and was named to the AHL’s Second All-Star Team following the 2011-12 campaign.

The blueliner currently ranks sixth on Rockford’s all-time games played list (211) and second on the career assist list (100). Connelly is the IceHogs all-time leading point producer among defenseman (126).

Prior to his professional career, Connelly appeared in 114 career games with Colorado College from 2006 to 2009, posting 63 points (8g, 55a) during that span.

Shea has appeared in 22 games with Rockford during his first full professional season, tallying 1g-3a-4pts. The Harrison Township, Mich., native has played in 19 contests with the Walleye, notching 2g-2a-4pts.

Winchester, 32, has recorded 30 points (16g, 14a) in 55 games this season with Rockford. He was signed by the Blackhawks as a free agent on July 24, 2013.

Miskovic was acquired by Rockford from the San Antonio Rampage on Jan. 18 in exchange for future considerations. In 15 games with Rockford, the River Forest, Ill. native marked seven assists.

Next Home Game: Tuesday, March 4 against Rochester Americans. The puck is set to drop at 7 p.m. It is a WXRX Dollar Day and all fans in attendance can receive $1 hot dogs, soft drinks, beers and companion tickets.